Velenje is a meaningful setting for this year’s event. Even though coal mining is a significant part of its past and continues to shape its culture and economic activity, the city has been successfully navigating an energy transformation toward climate neutrality. It has been recognised for its inspirational work and has been awarded the European Green Leaf Award 2024.

At the Annual Political Dialogue, participants will be able to make the most of being in Velenje by getting the chance to observe and learn from the local transition practices during three unique site visit options. Each of these site visits builds on the programme of the event, and demonstrates the singular challenges and opportunities of implementing a just transition. The site visits will guide participants through various topics like district heating, creating business opportunities at former mining sites, and rehabilitation of degraded areas.
 
1) District heating

Visit the Šoštanj thermal power plant and learn about the district heating system, which provides sustainable heating solutions to the region. The municipality of Velenje, the Velenje utility company and the power plant are cooperating on the transformation of the district heating system in the Šalek Valley. Join this two-hour site visit to explore the decarbonisation of district heating systems towards renewable energy sources, and future plans for this local project.

2) Mining history and business development

In this site visit, you will get a glimpse at mining life at the Velenje Coal Mine’s underground museum, and be able to take in the history of coal mining in the area. As you consider the past, you will also discover what the future holds at the various project sites poised for transformation with EU support, such as the Business Zone Stara vas, a developing business and innovation district.

3) Revitalisation of mining sites

Discover the evolution of a former mining site into a revitalised and thriving tourist destination at Lake Velenje, one of the largest lakes in Slovenia, whose waters cover submerged rural villages. The mining heritage of the area is a key draw for tourism; tourism infrastructure has been developed greatly in recent years. The mining operations had led to a degradation of the land, which has since undergone an ecological restoration turning the area into a picturesque park.

Register now to attend the Annual Political Dialogue, in order to have the opportunity to partake in these visits and the rich discussions they enable. In-person registration remains open until 24 June 2024, so secure your spot here.

© City of Velenje